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Pensioner dies after 'despicable' attack

93-year-old Emma Winnall had been in intensive care since May 1. Photo: Police handout

A 93-year-old woman who was the victim of a savage assault in her Birmingham home has died in hospital.

Emma Winnall, who was attacked in Moseley, nearly a month ago, died at 4.25am on Tuesday from complications arising from her injuries, West Midlands Police said.

Mrs Winnall, who suffered a fractured skull and broken arm, had been in intensive care since May 1 after being found badly injured in her bed.

This is desperately sad news. Our condolences go out to Emma's family and friends. Clearly, this has now become a murder inquiry.

This was a shocking attack on a defenceless, elderly woman as she slept in her own bed.

No-one capable of carrying out such a despicable attack deserves protecting - I'm asking people to look into their consciences and if they have any suspicions about who may be responsible to contact police.

– Head of Major Crime at West Midlands Police Superintendent Richard Baker.

Following the attack Mrs Winnall's daughter Joyce Blencoe, supported by her brother, made an emotional appeal for information to help find those responsible.

Detailed forensic analysis is continuing on items removed from Mrs Winnall's home in Pensby Close, and a Crimestoppers reward of £5,000 is on offer to anyone who provides information which leads to a conviction.

A 56-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man from the Hall Green of Birmingham were arrested in connection with the offence earlier this month and are due to answer police bail in July.

A photograph released by police of Mrs Winnall in her youth. Credit: Police handout

Police have confirmed that officers were able to speak to Mrs Winnall in hospital on two occasions in the days following her ordeal and that the information she provided continues to form part of their investigation.

A post-mortem examination will take place later on Tuesday to determine the precise cause of the widow's death.

Anyone with information which could assist the inquiry is urged to contact West Midlands Police on 101 or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.